Sperm Retrieval Techniques: TESA, PESA, and Micro-TESE
At Archish Fertility & IVF, we understand the profound desire for parenthood and the challenges that infertility can bring. Our aim is to provide comprehensive, compassionate care and cutting-edge treatments to help couples achieve their dreams. For men facing infertility issues, advanced sperm retrieval techniques such as TESA, PESA, and Micro-TESE offer promising solutions. These procedures are designed to retrieve sperm directly from the testes or epididymis, making it possible for men who have difficulty producing sperm naturally to father biological children.
Understanding Sperm Retrieval Techniques
Here’s an in-depth look at the three primary sperm retrieval techniques we offer:
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
TESA is a minimally invasive procedure that retrieves sperm directly from the testicles. This technique is beneficial in cases where there is a blockage preventing sperm from being present in the ejaculate or when sperm production within the testes is deficient.
- Procedure: TESA involves the insertion of a fine needle into the testicle to aspirate (suction out) sperm-containing fluid. This procedure is done under local anaesthesia, ensuring the patient experiences minimal discomfort. The aspirated fluid is then examined in the laboratory to identify and isolate viable sperm.
- Recovery: The recovery from TESA is generally quick. Patients may or may not experience minor discomfort or swelling, which usually resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication can manage any mild pain.
- Usage: TESA is commonly used for men with obstructive azoospermia (a condition where sperm is produced but cannot be ejaculated due to blockages in the reproductive tract) or non-obstructive azoospermia (a condition characterized by very low or absent sperm production).
PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
PESA is a technique that involves using a needle to extract the sperm directly from the epididymis (coiled tube which stores and carries sperm from the testes). This method is less invasive than surgical procedures and is especially useful when there is a blockage in the vas deferens or other parts of the sperm transport pathway.
- Procedure: During PESA, a fine needle is inserted into the epididymis to aspirate sperm. This procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, minimizing discomfort for the patient. The aspirated fluid is then processed in the lab to isolate sperm.
- Recovery: PESA generally requires minimal recovery time. Patients might experience slight swelling or discomfort at the needle insertion site, which typically subsides within a few days.
- Usage: PESA is ideal for men who have had a vasectomy or those with other blockages which prevent sperm from being present in the ejaculate. It is also used in cases of obstructive azoospermia.
Micro-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction)
Micro-TESE is an advanced and highly effective technique for retrieving sperm from men with deficient sperm production. This method involves microsurgery to locate and extract sperm directly from the seminiferous tubules within the testicles, where sperm production occurs.
- Procedure: Micro-TESE is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort. A small incision is made in the testicle, and a high-powered microscope is used to identify areas within the seminiferous tubules that contain sperm. These areas are then surgically excised, and the tissue is processed in the lab to extract viable sperm.
- Recovery: Recovery from Micro-TESE typically involves a few days of rest. Patients may experience very minimal pain, that can be alleviated with prescribed pain medication. To facilitate healing, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities for a short period.
- Usage: Micro-TESE is particularly beneficial for men with non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is significantly impaired. It is also an option for men who have not had success with other sperm retrieval methods.
Choosing the Right Technique
At Archish Fertility & IVF, our experienced specialists carefully assess each patient’s unique circumstances and the underlying causes of infertility to select the most suitable sperm retrieval technique. We are committed in offerng personalized care and utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance the likelihood of successful conception.
Contact Us
If you are the one facing challenges with male infertility, Archish Fertility & IVF is here to help. Our expert team is committed to supporting you on your journey to parenthood with compassion and advanced medical care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how TESA, PESA, or Micro-TESE can be part of your fertility treatment plan. Together, we can turn your dreams of having a family into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Specialists

Dr. Madhu Patil
Clinical Head/ Fertility Consultant

Dr. Narmatha E
Fertility Consultant

Dr. Sushma Pampanavar
Fertility Consultant

Dr. Ankita Gahlot
Fertility Consultant